Local Interest

Experience the best of the Yorkshire Dales

The Yorkshire Dales offers a splendid and diverse variety of scenic beauty. From the individual character of each Dale, the charm of the picture postcard villages and the solitude of the moors and fells, we can proudly say we have it all!!

This superb natural beauty gives you the space to relax and unwind and creates a wealth of leisure pursuits and activities for you to indulge in, discover and enjoy. A day fishing, walking or bird watching, or the more high impact pursuits of mountain biking, rock climbing and horse riding.

From a leisurely stroll through peaceful countryside, to busy towns and cities, like Harrogate and York, that are a shopaholic’s dream – you can set the pace to suit your mood. If a little culture is the order of the day there are many museums, art galleries and heritage centres on offer as well as historical castles, abbeys and country houses. For frivolous fun, thrills and spills, try the Lightwater Valley Theme Park and the excitement of the many nearby racecourses in our area – Ripon, York, Wetherby and Thirsk.

Studfold Farm is ideally situated to be within easy reach of many of the varied local attractions.

Next door is Howstean Gorge, or as it is known locally ‘Little Switzerland’. The upper dale also hosts the most picturesque part of the ‘Nidderdale Way’, a circular walk of over 50 miles. This takes the intrepid walker past Scar House and Angram reservoirs, a place for reflection and tranquil beauty.

Fifteen minutes down the dale past Gouthwaite Reservoir, a bird watchers paradise, is the quaint market town of Pateley Bridge with its traditional shops, small theatre and the Nidderdale museum. Close to Pateley are the geographical features of Brimham Rocks and Stump Cross Caverns, both well worth a visit.

The World Heritage Site of Fountains Abbey is close to Ripon, one of England’s smallest cities. Ripon is a forty minute trip from the farmhouse, but close by is Lightwater Valley Theme Park and for those in need of liquid refreshment, the Black Sheep Brewery and its guided tours!!

There are plenty of opportunities for the outdoor enthusiast. Local businesses offer mountain bike hire, pony trekking and paintballing. Nidderdale Recreation Centre has a full programme of activities and sports.

Local pubs serve wholesome traditional Yorkshire fayre and within easy reach from Studfold are several excellent restaurants, which are frequented by both visitors and locals (always a good sign!). Pateley Bridge has Indian and Italian restaurants as well as two fish and chip shops!

There is something for everyone in Nidderdale and its surrounding area.

Obviously it is impossible to mention every attraction or place of interest so please do not hesitate to contact us if you require any further information.

Details of local attractions and activities, as well as advice about fishing permits etc, can be obtained from local Tourist Information Centres:

• Pateley Bridge 01423 711147 (+44 1423 711147)
• Yorkshire Tourist Board 01904 70796 (+44 1904 70796 )